US20030070875A1 - Articulating step assembly - Google Patents
Articulating step assembly Download PDFInfo
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- US20030070875A1 US20030070875A1 US09/975,218 US97521801A US2003070875A1 US 20030070875 A1 US20030070875 A1 US 20030070875A1 US 97521801 A US97521801 A US 97521801A US 2003070875 A1 US2003070875 A1 US 2003070875A1
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- Prior art keywords
- linkage
- extension
- side member
- articulating
- drop
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- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
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- 229910001092 metal group alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 150000002739 metals Chemical class 0.000 description 3
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- 239000011248 coating agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000576 coating method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 description 2
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- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
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- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
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- 239000000025 natural resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920003002 synthetic resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000000057 synthetic resin Substances 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06C—LADDERS
- E06C5/00—Ladders characterised by being mounted on undercarriages or vehicles Securing ladders on vehicles
- E06C5/02—Ladders characterised by being mounted on undercarriages or vehicles Securing ladders on vehicles with rigid longitudinal members
- E06C5/04—Ladders characterised by being mounted on undercarriages or vehicles Securing ladders on vehicles with rigid longitudinal members capable of being elevated or extended ; Fastening means during transport, e.g. mechanical, hydraulic
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R3/00—Arrangements of steps or ladders facilitating access to or on the vehicle, e.g. running-boards
- B60R3/02—Retractable steps or ladders, e.g. movable under shock
Definitions
- the present invention relates in general to an articulating step assembly for the ingress to and egress from, for example, a recreational vehicle, and more particularly, to a retractable and extendable step assembly for use with a recreational vehicle.
- retractable vehicle steps In response to the problems associated with the ingress to and egress from a recreational vehicle, a number of retractable vehicle steps have become commercially available. Many of these retractable steps allow for an intermediate level between the ground and the door of the vehicle that can be retracted into or under the vehicle during storage and/or while the vehicle is in motion. While retractable vehicle steps have become commercially available, their configurations remain largely problematic such that they do not appear to fit within the standard envelope or side frames. Furthermore, such vehicle steps appear to require substantial effort to retract and extend and do not appear to provide substantial riser spacing when fully extended.
- the present invention is directed to an articulating step assembly comprising: (a) a side member, wherein the side member is mountable to the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein the side member includes a guide slot having a first end and a second end; (b) a drop linkage, wherein a portion of the drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot; (c) a pivot linkage, wherein the pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the side member and the second end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and (d) a step associated with the drop linkage, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of the drop linkage positioned within the guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivots the pivot linkage relative to each of the side member and the drop linkage.
- the guide slot slopes downward from the first end to the second end.
- the portion of the drop linkage slidably positioned within the guide slot comprises a pin member.
- the side member further includes a base slot having a first end and a second end.
- the articulating step assembly of the present invention further includes: (a) an extension step, wherein the extension step is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and (b) an extension linkage, wherein the extension linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the extension linkage is slidably positioned within the base slot, and the second end of the extension linkage is pivotally coupled to the extension step, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably directs the first end of the extension linkage from the first end of the base slot toward the second end of the base slot, thereby pivoting the second end of extension linkage relative to the extension step.
- the base slot is preferably non-linear and/or arcuate.
- the articulating step assembly further comprises an expansion sub-assembly, wherein the expansion sub-assembly includes a bracket and an expansion step, and wherein the bracket is pivotally coupled to the extension step.
- the present invention is also directed to an articulating step assembly comprising: (a) a pair of side members spaced apart from one another, wherein the side members are mountable to the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein each side member includes a guide slot having a first end and second end; (b) a drop linkage associated with each side member, wherein a portion of each drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot of the respective side member; (c) a pivot linkage associated with each side member, wherein each pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of each pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the respective side member and the second end of each pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the respective drop linkage; and (d) a step positioned between the pair of side members, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of each drop linkage positioned within the respective guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivot
- the present invention is further directed to an articulating step assembly comprising: (a) a pair of side members spaced apart from one other, wherein the side members are mountable onto the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein each side member includes a guide slot and a base slot; and (b) a step assembly comprising a step, wherein the step assembly is associated with both of the guide slots and base slots, and wherein the base slots are substantially non-linear to, in turn, preclude inadvertent extension and/or retraction of the articulating step assembly.
- FIG. 1 of the drawings is a perspective schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in an extended position
- FIG. 2 of the drawings is a side schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in an extended position
- FIG. 3 of the drawings is a perspective schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in a retracted position
- FIG. 4 of the drawings is a side schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in a retracted position.
- FIGS. 1 - 4 are schematic representations of an articulating step assembly. As such, some of the components have been distorted from their actual scale for pictorial clarity.
- Articulating step assembly 10 is preferably used with recreational vehicles, such as recreational vehicles, but it will be understood that its use is not limited thereto. Indeed, most applicable vehicles have a door or other means of ingress/egress, and this door is normally spaced apart a certain distance from the ground. Therefore, the articulating step assembly is preferably associated with the area of the vehicle at which ingress/egress may take place.
- step assembly 14 which preferably includes guide step 20 , extension step 21 , and expansion assembly 22 , can be articulated from a retracted position (see FIGS. 3 and 4) to an extended position (see FIGS. 1 and 2).
- step assembly 14 which generally includes guide step 20 , extension step 21 , and expansion assembly 22 , is substantially housed within the confines of frame assembly 12 .
- guide step 20 is positioned outwardly and downwardly relative to its retracted position, and extension step 21 and expansion assembly 22 are located below and outward from, and, in the embodiment shown, substantially parallel to step 20 . In this position, ingress to and egress from a vehicle having a relatively large ground clearance can be facilitated with relative ease.
- frame assembly 12 generally comprises two side members 30 and 30 ′, as well as frame brace 32 .
- Side members 30 and 30 ′ each comprise a substantially rigid planar piece of material having a front region 38 and a back region 39 .
- Side members 30 and 30 ′ additionally comprise at least one mounting bracket 23 and 23 ′, which allow side members 30 and 30 ′, respectively, to be fixedly attached to the underside of a vehicle (not shown) by, for example, bolts, fasteners, welding—just to name a few.
- Side members 30 and 30 ′ are mounted in a spaced position relative to one another to the underside of a vehicle, and preferably are mounted substantially parallel to one another.
- frame brace 32 couples side members 30 and 30 ′ to help ensure that the spacing and relative positioning of side members 30 and 30 ′ will be properly maintained.
- Side members 30 and 30 ′ and frame brace 32 are preferably constructed from, for example, metals, metal alloys, plastics, natural and synthetic resins.
- side member 30 will be discussed with the understanding that it is substantially identical to side member 30 ′.
- similar structures will be identified using the same reference numeral augmented by a prime (′).
- ′ a prime
- one of the side members may be different than the other side member, as long as the desired motion can be achieved under, at least partial, direction of one of the side members.
- side member 30 includes guide slot 34 and base slot 36 .
- Guide slot 34 includes first end 40 proximate back region 39 of side member 30 , and second end 41 proximate front region 38 of side member 30 .
- Guide slot 34 comprises a substantially linear slot, which slopes in a generally downward direction from back region 39 to front region 38 of side member 30 . As such, first end 40 of the guide slot 34 is closer to the upper end of side member 30 than second end 41 of guide slot 34 .
- Base slot 36 includes first end 42 proximate back region 39 of side member 30 and second end 43 proximate front region 38 of side member 30 .
- Base slot 36 comprises an arcuate or arch-like slot, having its low points near first end 42 and second end 43 thereof, and a high point therebetween. While a preferred arcuate configuration has been shown, for illustrative purposes only, it will be understood that other non-linear configurations that would be known to those having ordinary skill in the art having the present disclosure before them are likewise contemplated for use.
- step assembly 14 comprises three mirrored pairs of individual linkages, including drop linkages 24 and 24 ′, pivot linkages 26 and 26 ′, and extension linkages 28 and 28 ′ as well as handle 29 .
- step assembly 14 will be described relative to a single side of the linkages, with the understanding that it is substantially identical to the other side of linkages. Accordingly, similar structures will utilize the same reference numerals augmented with a prime (′).
- drop linkage 24 comprises pin member 50 and an inverted L-shape member having an upper end 52 and lower end 54 with a substantially obtuse angle ( ⁇ ).
- Drop linkage 24 provides a support structure for guide step 20 , which is fixedly associated between the mirrored pair of drop linkages 24 and 24 ′. While it is contemplated that guide step 20 may be associated at any point along drop linkage 24 , in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, step 20 is positioned along upper end 52 of drop linkage 24 .
- drop linkage 24 is preferably constructed from any one of a number of rigid materials, including metals, metal alloys, plastics, natural and synthetic resins—just to name a few.
- Pin member 50 is associated with upper end 52 of drop linkage 24 .
- Pin member 50 is positioned so as to slidably couple with guide slot 34 of side member 30 so that guide slot 34 directs the movement of pin member 50 , and in turn, step assembly 14 .
- Pin member 50 may additionally include any one of a number of means for increasing slidability, including, for example, a lubricant or coating.
- pivot linkage 26 comprises a substantially linear linkage, which includes first end 70 and second end 72 .
- First end 70 is pivotably coupled to side member 30
- second end 72 is pivotably coupled to drop linkage 24 .
- This connection enables pivot linkage 26 to provide both guidance relative to the movement of step assembly 14 and support for the same in both retracted and extended positions.
- Extension linkage 28 includes first end 60 , second end 61 , and pin member 62 .
- Pin member 62 is positioned on first end 60 of extension linkage 28 and is associated with base slot 36 , wherein pin member 62 provides a sliding connection between extension linkage 28 and base slot 36 .
- pin member 62 of extension linkage 28 may additionally comprise a means for increasing slidability, such as a lubricant and/or coating.
- Extension linkage 28 is pivotally connected with extension step 21 at the second end, enabling extension step 21 to move from a substantially vertical position when step assembly 14 is in a retracted position, as is shown in FIG. 3, to a substantially horizontal position when step assembly 14 is in an extended position, as is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
- extension step 21 is also pivotably associated with drop linkage 24 .
- Expansion assembly 22 is shown in FIG. 1, as comprising a pair of L-shaped brackets 80 and 80 ′, and expansion step 82 fixedly positioned therebetween.
- L-shaped bracket 80 is rotatably associated with extension step 21 , which allows expansion step 82 to be folded inwardly toward extension step 21 , such that the stepping surfaces of extension step 21 and expansion step 82 face one another.
- guide step 20 , extension step 21 , and expansion step 82 of expansion assembly 22 generally comprise an elongated flat surface having a substantially rectangular configuration.
- the steps additionally comprise stepping surfaces 90 , 90 ′, and 90 ′′ respectively, upon which a means for increasing traction may be associated.
- a means for increasing traction may comprise applying a gripping surface, such as a slotted plastic mat.
- the means for increasing traction may comprise a multitude of holes emanating through the stepping surface and the steps themselves.
- the means for increasing traction is intended to provide a safe and reliable surface for a person to walk on when articulating step assembly 10 is in an extended position.
- handle 29 of step assembly 14 may be associated in any one of number of locations, but it is preferably associated with the underside of extension step 21 .
- Handle 29 provides a means for manually articulating the step assembly from the retracted position shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 to the extended position shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.
- handle 29 is preferably fabricated from one or more metals, metal alloys, plastics, natural and synthetic resins—just to name a few.
- articulating step assembly 10 generally begins in a stored, retracted position, with step assembly 14 substantially contained within the confines of frame assembly 12 .
- drop linkages 24 and 24 ′ of step assembly 14 begin to slide along their respective guide slots (i.e., from at or near the first end of the guide slot toward the second end of guide slot).
- the pivot linkages 26 and 26 ′ begin to pivot.
- pivot linkages 26 and 26 ′ begin to pivot relative to their respective side members and drop linkages, thereby keeping the second ends of the pivot linkages moving in an arcuate manner.
- the arcuate displacement pivots guide step 20 away from horizontal, and slightly elevates drop linkages 24 and 24 ′ in transition, extending step assembly 14 out and away from frame assembly 12 .
- first ends 60 and 60 ′ of extension linkage 28 and 28 ′ respectively, begin to move from at or near first ends 42 and 42 ′ of base slots 36 and 36 ′ toward second ends 43 and 43 ′ of their respective base slot.
- first ends 60 and 60 ′ of extension linkage 28 and 28 ′ are slidably repositioned within their respective base slot, second ends 61 and 61 ′ pivot relative to extension step 21 , causing extension step 21 to rotate from a substantially vertical position forward towards a substantially horizontal position.
- extension step 21 is positioned in a substantially horizontal position, and step assembly 14 is substantially extended, expansion sub-assembly 22 may be rotated relative to extension step 21 .
- expansion step 82 of expansion sub-assembly 22 is rotated from a substantial facial relation with extension step 21 to a substantially parallel and horizontal position to extension step 21 .
- each one of guide step 20 , extension step 21 and expansion step 82 are in a substantially horizontal position, with extension step 21 and expansion step 82 in a progressively staggered positions relative to step 20 .
- the base slots include a region that is elevated to each of the first end and second end, the shape of the base slot precludes inadvertent deployment of the assembly, during, for example, travel over rough terrain.
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Abstract
An articulating step assembly comprising: a side member which includes a guide slot having a first end and a second end; a drop linkage, wherein a portion of the drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot; a pivot linkage, wherein the pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the side member and the second end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and a step associated with the drop linkage, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of the drop linkage positioned within the guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivots the pivot linkage relative to each of the side member and the drop linkage.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates in general to an articulating step assembly for the ingress to and egress from, for example, a recreational vehicle, and more particularly, to a retractable and extendable step assembly for use with a recreational vehicle.
- 2. Background Art
- Recreational vehicles, such as, for example, motorized vehicles or travel trailers, have been known in the art for several years. As technology has evolved, such recreational vehicles have become larger, taller, and more spacious, providing many of the comforts of home away from home. However, many of today's recreational vehicles include a large ground clearance or open space between the entrances of these vehicles and the ground. The large ground clearances have made it problematic for many to enter into or depart from such recreational vehicles.
- In response to the problems associated with the ingress to and egress from a recreational vehicle, a number of retractable vehicle steps have become commercially available. Many of these retractable steps allow for an intermediate level between the ground and the door of the vehicle that can be retracted into or under the vehicle during storage and/or while the vehicle is in motion. While retractable vehicle steps have become commercially available, their configurations remain largely problematic such that they do not appear to fit within the standard envelope or side frames. Furthermore, such vehicle steps appear to require substantial effort to retract and extend and do not appear to provide substantial riser spacing when fully extended.
- It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an articulating step assembly for providing ingress to and egress from a vehicle that is relatively structurally simple, acceptably sturdy, and inexpensive to build, while the configuration of the articulating step fits within the standard envelope or side frames.
- It is therefore a further object of the present invention to provide an articulating step assembly that is capable of providing multiple intermediate step levels which are easily retracted and extended and provide substantial riser spacing so that easy and reliable access to a vehicle is possible.
- These and other objectives will become apparent in light of the present specification, claims, and drawings.
- The present invention is directed to an articulating step assembly comprising: (a) a side member, wherein the side member is mountable to the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein the side member includes a guide slot having a first end and a second end; (b) a drop linkage, wherein a portion of the drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot; (c) a pivot linkage, wherein the pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the side member and the second end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and (d) a step associated with the drop linkage, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of the drop linkage positioned within the guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivots the pivot linkage relative to each of the side member and the drop linkage.
- In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the guide slot slopes downward from the first end to the second end.
- In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the portion of the drop linkage slidably positioned within the guide slot comprises a pin member.
- In yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the side member further includes a base slot having a first end and a second end.
- Preferably, the articulating step assembly of the present invention further includes: (a) an extension step, wherein the extension step is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and (b) an extension linkage, wherein the extension linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the extension linkage is slidably positioned within the base slot, and the second end of the extension linkage is pivotally coupled to the extension step, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably directs the first end of the extension linkage from the first end of the base slot toward the second end of the base slot, thereby pivoting the second end of extension linkage relative to the extension step. In this embodiment the base slot is preferably non-linear and/or arcuate.
- In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the articulating step assembly further comprises an expansion sub-assembly, wherein the expansion sub-assembly includes a bracket and an expansion step, and wherein the bracket is pivotally coupled to the extension step.
- The present invention is also directed to an articulating step assembly comprising: (a) a pair of side members spaced apart from one another, wherein the side members are mountable to the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein each side member includes a guide slot having a first end and second end; (b) a drop linkage associated with each side member, wherein a portion of each drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot of the respective side member; (c) a pivot linkage associated with each side member, wherein each pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of each pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the respective side member and the second end of each pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the respective drop linkage; and (d) a step positioned between the pair of side members, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of each drop linkage positioned within the respective guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivots each pivot linkage relative to each respective side member and drop linkage.
- The present invention is further directed to an articulating step assembly comprising: (a) a pair of side members spaced apart from one other, wherein the side members are mountable onto the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein each side member includes a guide slot and a base slot; and (b) a step assembly comprising a step, wherein the step assembly is associated with both of the guide slots and base slots, and wherein the base slots are substantially non-linear to, in turn, preclude inadvertent extension and/or retraction of the articulating step assembly.
- The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings wherein:
- FIG. 1 of the drawings is a perspective schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in an extended position;
- FIG. 2 of the drawings is a side schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in an extended position;
- FIG. 3 of the drawings is a perspective schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in a retracted position; and
- FIG. 4 of the drawings is a side schematic representation of an articulating step assembly shown in a retracted position.
- While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described in detail several specific embodiments with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated.
- Referring now to the drawings and to FIG. 1 in particular, a first embodiment of articulating
step assembly 10 is shown, which generally comprisesframe assembly 12 andstep assembly 14. It will be understood that FIGS. 1-4 are schematic representations of an articulating step assembly. As such, some of the components have been distorted from their actual scale for pictorial clarity.Articulating step assembly 10 is preferably used with recreational vehicles, such as recreational vehicles, but it will be understood that its use is not limited thereto. Indeed, most applicable vehicles have a door or other means of ingress/egress, and this door is normally spaced apart a certain distance from the ground. Therefore, the articulating step assembly is preferably associated with the area of the vehicle at which ingress/egress may take place. - As will be explained in detail below,
step assembly 14, which preferably includesguide step 20,extension step 21, and expansion assembly 22, can be articulated from a retracted position (see FIGS. 3 and 4) to an extended position (see FIGS. 1 and 2). In the retracted position,step assembly 14, which generally includesguide step 20,extension step 21, and expansion assembly 22, is substantially housed within the confines offrame assembly 12. In the extended position,guide step 20 is positioned outwardly and downwardly relative to its retracted position, andextension step 21 and expansion assembly 22 are located below and outward from, and, in the embodiment shown, substantially parallel tostep 20. In this position, ingress to and egress from a vehicle having a relatively large ground clearance can be facilitated with relative ease. - Referring once again to FIG. 1,
frame assembly 12 generally comprises twoside members frame brace 32.Side members front region 38 and aback region 39.Side members mounting bracket side members Side members step assembly 10,frame brace 32couples side members side members Side members frame brace 32 are preferably constructed from, for example, metals, metal alloys, plastics, natural and synthetic resins. - Inasmuch as
side members side member 30 will be discussed with the understanding that it is substantially identical toside member 30′. To that end, similar structures will be identified using the same reference numeral augmented by a prime (′). However, it will be understood that in certain embodiments, it is contemplated that one of the side members may be different than the other side member, as long as the desired motion can be achieved under, at least partial, direction of one of the side members. - Specifically, and as is best shown in FIGS. 2 and 4,
side member 30 includesguide slot 34 andbase slot 36.Guide slot 34 includesfirst end 40proximate back region 39 ofside member 30, andsecond end 41 proximatefront region 38 ofside member 30.Guide slot 34 comprises a substantially linear slot, which slopes in a generally downward direction fromback region 39 tofront region 38 ofside member 30. As such,first end 40 of theguide slot 34 is closer to the upper end ofside member 30 thansecond end 41 ofguide slot 34. -
Base slot 36 includesfirst end 42proximate back region 39 ofside member 30 andsecond end 43 proximatefront region 38 ofside member 30.Base slot 36 comprises an arcuate or arch-like slot, having its low points nearfirst end 42 andsecond end 43 thereof, and a high point therebetween. While a preferred arcuate configuration has been shown, for illustrative purposes only, it will be understood that other non-linear configurations that would be known to those having ordinary skill in the art having the present disclosure before them are likewise contemplated for use. - Referring again to FIG. 1,
step assembly 14 comprises three mirrored pairs of individual linkages, includingdrop linkages pivot linkages extension linkages handle 29. In order to more clearly describe the present invention,step assembly 14 will be described relative to a single side of the linkages, with the understanding that it is substantially identical to the other side of linkages. Accordingly, similar structures will utilize the same reference numerals augmented with a prime (′). - Referring now to FIG. 2,
drop linkage 24 comprisespin member 50 and an inverted L-shape member having anupper end 52 andlower end 54 with a substantially obtuse angle (α). Droplinkage 24 provides a support structure forguide step 20, which is fixedly associated between the mirrored pair ofdrop linkages guide step 20 may be associated at any point alongdrop linkage 24, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1,step 20 is positioned alongupper end 52 ofdrop linkage 24. In order to be able to supportstep 20 appropriately, droplinkage 24 is preferably constructed from any one of a number of rigid materials, including metals, metal alloys, plastics, natural and synthetic resins—just to name a few. -
Pin member 50 is associated withupper end 52 ofdrop linkage 24.Pin member 50 is positioned so as to slidably couple withguide slot 34 ofside member 30 so thatguide slot 34 directs the movement ofpin member 50, and in turn,step assembly 14.Pin member 50 may additionally include any one of a number of means for increasing slidability, including, for example, a lubricant or coating. - As is best shown in FIG. 2,
pivot linkage 26 comprises a substantially linear linkage, which includes first end 70 andsecond end 72. First end 70 is pivotably coupled toside member 30, andsecond end 72 is pivotably coupled to droplinkage 24. This connection enablespivot linkage 26 to provide both guidance relative to the movement ofstep assembly 14 and support for the same in both retracted and extended positions. -
Extension linkage 28 includesfirst end 60, second end 61, andpin member 62.Pin member 62 is positioned onfirst end 60 ofextension linkage 28 and is associated withbase slot 36, whereinpin member 62 provides a sliding connection betweenextension linkage 28 andbase slot 36. Similar to pinmember 50 ofdrop linkage 24,pin member 62 ofextension linkage 28 may additionally comprise a means for increasing slidability, such as a lubricant and/or coating.Extension linkage 28 is pivotally connected withextension step 21 at the second end, enablingextension step 21 to move from a substantially vertical position whenstep assembly 14 is in a retracted position, as is shown in FIG. 3, to a substantially horizontal position whenstep assembly 14 is in an extended position, as is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In order to further facilitate this movement,extension step 21 is also pivotably associated withdrop linkage 24. - Expansion assembly22 is shown in FIG. 1, as comprising a pair of L-shaped
brackets expansion step 82 fixedly positioned therebetween. As is shown in FIG. 2, L-shapedbracket 80 is rotatably associated withextension step 21, which allowsexpansion step 82 to be folded inwardly towardextension step 21, such that the stepping surfaces ofextension step 21 andexpansion step 82 face one another. - Referring back again to FIG. 1, guide
step 20,extension step 21, andexpansion step 82 of expansion assembly 22, generally comprise an elongated flat surface having a substantially rectangular configuration. The steps additionally comprise steppingsurfaces step assembly 10 is in an extended position. - Referring once again to FIGS. 1 and 2, handle29 of
step assembly 14 may be associated in any one of number of locations, but it is preferably associated with the underside ofextension step 21.Handle 29 provides a means for manually articulating the step assembly from the retracted position shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 to the extended position shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. For purposes of the present invention, handle 29 is preferably fabricated from one or more metals, metal alloys, plastics, natural and synthetic resins—just to name a few. - In operation, articulating
step assembly 10 generally begins in a stored, retracted position, withstep assembly 14 substantially contained within the confines offrame assembly 12. Upon articulation ofhandle 29, in a generally downward and outward manner relative to frameassembly 12,drop linkages step assembly 14 begin to slide along their respective guide slots (i.e., from at or near the first end of the guide slot toward the second end of guide slot). Concurrently, thepivot linkages linkages step 20 away from horizontal, and slightly elevatesdrop linkages step assembly 14 out and away fromframe assembly 12. Asstep assembly 14 is extended outward, first ends 60 and 60′ ofextension linkage base slots extension linkage extension step 21, causingextension step 21 to rotate from a substantially vertical position forward towards a substantially horizontal position. - Once
extension step 21 is positioned in a substantially horizontal position, and stepassembly 14 is substantially extended, expansion sub-assembly 22 may be rotated relative toextension step 21. During rotation,expansion step 82 of expansion sub-assembly 22 is rotated from a substantial facial relation withextension step 21 to a substantially parallel and horizontal position toextension step 21. In the final, extended position, each one ofguide step 20,extension step 21 andexpansion step 82 are in a substantially horizontal position, withextension step 21 andexpansion step 82 in a progressively staggered positions relative to step 20. - The reversing of these steps will return the assembly to the underplayed position. It will be understood that because the base slots include a region that is elevated to each of the first end and second end, the shape of the base slot precludes inadvertent deployment of the assembly, during, for example, travel over rough terrain.
- The foregoing description merely explains and illustrates the invention and the invention is not limited thereto except insofar as the appended claims are so limited, as those skilled in the art who have the disclosure before them will be able to make modifications without departing from the scope of the invention.
Claims (21)
1. An articulating step assembly, comprising:
a side member, wherein the side member is mountable to the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein the side member includes a guide slot having a first end and a second end;
a drop linkage, wherein a portion of the drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot;
a pivot linkage, wherein the pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the side member and the second end of the pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and
a step associated with the drop linkage, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of the drop linkage positioned within the guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivots the pivot linkage relative to each of the side member and the drop linkage.
2. The articulating step assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the guide slot slopes downward from the first end to the second end.
3. The articulating step assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the portion of the drop linkage slidably positioned within the guide slot comprises a pin member.
4. The articulating step assembly according to claim 1 , wherein the side member further includes a base slot having a first end and a second end.
5. The articulating step assembly according to claim 4 , further comprising:
an extension step, wherein the extension step is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and
an extension linkage, wherein the extension linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the extension linkage is slidably positioned within the base slot, and the second end of the extension linkage is pivotally coupled to the extension step, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably directs the first end of the extension linkage from the first end of the base slot toward the second end of the base slot, thereby pivoting the second end of extension linkage relative to the extension step.
6. The articulating step assembly according to claim 4 , wherein the base slot is non-linear.
7. The articulating step assembly according to claim 6 , wherein the base slot is arcuate.
8. The articulating step assembly according to claim 7 , further comprising:
an extension step, wherein the extension step is pivotally coupled to the drop linkage; and
an extension linkage, wherein the extension linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of the extension linkage is slidably positioned within the base slot, and the second end of the extension linkage is pivotally coupled to the extension step, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably directs the first end of the extension linkage from the first end of the base slot toward the second end of the base slot, thereby pivoting the second end of extension linkage relative to the extension step.
9. The articulating step assembly according to claim 4 , further comprising an expansion sub-assembly, wherein the expansion sub-assembly includes a bracket and an expansion step, and wherein the bracket is pivotally coupled to the extension step.
10. The articulating step assembly according to claim 9 , wherein the first end of the extension linkage slidably positioned within the base slot comprises a pin member.
11. An articulating step assembly, comprising:
a pair of side members spaced apart from one another, wherein the side members are mountable to the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein each side member includes a guide slot having a first end and second end;
a drop linkage associated with each side member, wherein a portion of each drop linkage is slidably positioned within the guide slot of the respective side member;
a pivot linkage associated with each side member, wherein each pivot linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of each pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the respective side member and the second end of each pivot linkage is pivotally coupled to the respective drop linkage; and
a step positioned between the pair of side members, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably displaces the portion of each drop linkage positioned within the respective guide slot from the first end toward the second end thereof and pivots each pivot linkage relative to each respective side member and drop linkage.
12. The articulating step assembly according to claim 11 , wherein each guide slot slopes downward from the first end to the second end.
13. The articulating step assembly according to claim 11 , wherein the portion of the drop linkage slidably positioned within each guide slot comprises a pin member.
14. The articulating step assembly according to claim 11 , wherein each side member further includes a base slot having a first end and a second end.
15. The articulating step assembly according to claim 14 , further comprising:
an extension step, wherein the extension step is pivotally coupled to each drop linkage; and
an extension linkage associated with each side member, wherein each extension linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of each extension linkage is slidably positioned within the base slot of the respective side member, and the second end of each extension linkage is pivotally coupled to the extension step, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably directs the first end of each extension linkage from the first end of the base slot of the respective side member toward the second end of the base slot of the respective side member, thereby pivoting the second end of each extension linkage relative to the extension step.
16. The articulating step assembly according to claim 14 , wherein each base slot is non-linear.
17. The articulating step assembly according to claim 16 , wherein each base slot is arcuate.
18. The articulating step assembly according to claim 17 , further comprising:
an extension step, wherein the extension step is pivotally coupled to each drop linkage; and
an extension linkage associated with each side member, wherein each extension linkage includes a first end and a second end, and wherein the first end of each extension linkage is slidably positioned within the base slot of the respective side member, and the second end of each extension linkage is pivotally coupled to the extension step, whereupon articulation of the step from a retracted position to an extended position slidably directs the first end of each extension linkage from the first end of the base slot of the respective side member toward the second end of the base slot of the respective side member, thereby pivoting the second end of each extension linkage relative to the extension step.
19. The articulating step assembly according to claim 15 , further comprising an expansion sub-assembly, wherein the expansion sub-assembly includes a pair of brackets and an expansion step, and wherein each bracket is pivotally coupled to the extension step.
20. The articulating step assembly according to claim 19 , wherein the first end of each extension linkage slidably positioned within the base slot of the respective side member comprises a pin member.
21. An articulating step assembly, comprising:
a pair of side members spaced apart from one other, wherein the side members are mountable onto the undercarriage of a vehicle, and wherein each side member includes a guide slot and a base slot; and
a step assembly comprising a step, wherein the step assembly is associated with both of the guide slots and base slots, and wherein the base slots are substantially non-linear to, in turn, preclude inadvertent extension and/or retraction of the articulating step assembly.
Priority Applications (1)
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US09/975,218 US6659224B2 (en) | 2001-10-11 | 2001-10-11 | Articulating step assembly |
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US09/975,218 US6659224B2 (en) | 2001-10-11 | 2001-10-11 | Articulating step assembly |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20030070875A1 true US20030070875A1 (en) | 2003-04-17 |
US6659224B2 US6659224B2 (en) | 2003-12-09 |
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US09/975,218 Expired - Fee Related US6659224B2 (en) | 2001-10-11 | 2001-10-11 | Articulating step assembly |
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US (1) | US6659224B2 (en) |
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US8246063B1 (en) * | 2009-08-10 | 2012-08-21 | AOM Engineering Solutions, LLC | Rapid deployment assembly |
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